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Bullying. By dictionary definition, it means to treat in an overbearing or intimidating manner. From this definition, it’s apparent the action could include physical or psychological threats or put-downs. The cliché “gimme yer lunch money!” bully towering over a shivering shorter student is what most find comes to mind at the thought. Nevertheless, casual bullying has been known in school environments for ages. So, you might ask, why would it be such a notable topic now?

The ever-expanding world of technology has opened doors to new opportunities, but not always in the best of interests. The ability to speak to others without actually communicating (typing and text messaging, both behind a screen, opposed to face-to-face contact) has been made do with, from collections of social networking sites to texting during classes. However, while there are benefits of easy communication as such, there are negativities to follow; the main negativity apparent the concept of “Cyber-Bullying.” And, to some, this concept is ten times more of a threat than “normal” bullying.

Cyber-bullying is easier than the classic counterpart. Not only can you get your point across within the margins of a 160-character text message or an angry “AIM,” but also you don’t have to face the unpredictable reaction the one being bullied. Unspoken attacks can be initiated upon those who cannot fight back from behind their computer screen, creating a perfect atmosphere for uninterrupted harassment, which has been taken advantage of, to say in the least. According to the i-SAFE incorporated, 42% of children in middle school have been directly bullied online, while 35% have been threatened online. From these stats alone it has become evident the interactions online between teenagers are worthy of parental concern.

“Cyberbullying involves the use of information and communication technologies to support deliberate, repeated, and hostile behavior by an individual or group, that is intended to harm others,” –Bill Belsey of cyberbullying.org.